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By Jon Jackson
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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Thursday announced the creation of a Canada-U.S. relations council as his country's government prepares to respond to possible tariffs from President-elect Donald Trump.
Why It Matters
Trump has threatened to impose 25 percent tariffs on all Canadian products unless Canada curbs what he claims is a flow of migrants and drugs into the United States. This demand comes despite evidence that far fewer migrants and drugs cross into the U.S. from Canada compared to Mexico, highlighting a brewing trade and diplomatic standoff.
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Meanwhile, Trudeau announced his resignation as leader of Canada earlier this month after nearly a decade in power, citing "internal battles" that left him no longer being "the best option" in an election.
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What To Know
Among the members of the 18-member council will be former premiers and representatives from the automotive industry, the nuclear power sector and the labor movement.
Steve Verheul, who was integral during the renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), will be on the council, as will Canada's Ambassador to the United States Kirsten Hillman, former ambassador David MacNaughton and former national security adviser to the prime minister Jody Thomas.
A statement from the prime minister's office said, "The council will use sectoral expertise to support the prime minister and cabinet at this important time in the Canada-U.S. relationship."
Meanwhile, Trudeau addressed Trump's tariff threat on Wednesday after a meeting with Canada's premiers. According to the prime minster, Canada has not made a decision about what goods it might target with retaliatory measures should Trump follow through with tariffs.
What People Are Saying
Trudeau said after Wednesday's meeting with Canadian premiers: "We will protect Canadians. We will make sure that we are there to show what this country is made of."
He added, "If the American administration moves forward with its plans on tariffs, it will, first and foremost, hurt American citizens and American consumers, but it will also hurt Canadians."
Ontario Premier Doug Ford said at Wednesday's press conference: "When Donald Trump comes at us, he's not going to say, 'Well, let's not worry about Ontario—they're good people—or Alberta.' He's coming full tilt at Canadians as a whole. Donald Trump is a brilliant negotiator. That's what he's done his whole life, and that's exactly what he's doing. He's sitting there with a big smile on his face thinking, 'Wow, I'm going to divide and conquer.'"
What Happens Next
Trudeau will step down as prime minister once his ruling Liberal Party selects a new leader, which is expected to take place before the end of March.
Meanwhile, Trump is set to be inaugurated on January 20, and his decision regarding tariffs could follow soon after he's back in office.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.
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